PHOTOS: Iconic Cave Bath in Hungary reopens its outdoor area after fire

On Saturday, 21 June, the outdoor area of the Miskolctapolca Cave Bath—known as the Kagyló Strand (Shell Beach)—reopened to the public after a fire shut it down last September. Just in time for summer break, the beloved destination will once again welcome visitors with its six pools, sauna house, and picturesque natural surroundings, albeit with some restrictions in place.

Swimming season returns to Miskolctapolca

According to BOON, Miskolci Fürdők Ltd. has completed all necessary maintenance work and has resolved the technical issues affecting the outdoor pools caused by last fall’s fire. Starting 21 June, not only will the Kagyló Strand be back in operation, but all three of Miskolc’s baths—including the Selyemréti Strandfürdő and Ellipsum Adventure Bath—will be open at full capacity.

Miskolctapolca Cave Bath outdoor area reopening, iconic spa, thermal baths, wellness, Hungary
The outdoor Kagyló Strand. Photo: Facebook/Miskolctapolca Barlangfürdő és Aquaterápia

The family pool at the Tapolca bath is now usable again following pipe repairs, while in Selyemréti, the children’s and learning pools will be open starting Saturday. Over at Ellipsum, the previously closed family pool will also be available once more.

Partial reopening of the Cave Bath with some restrictions

However, the reopening of the Cave Bath is limited only to its outdoor areas. Indoor facilities, including the medical and spa services, remain closed due to significant damage sustained by the main building’s roof during the 6 September 2024 fire.

Leégett a Miskolctapolcai Barlangfürdõ gyógyászati központ
The building of the Miskolctapolca Cave Bath after the fire on the roof structure of the medical centre was extinguished on 7 September 2024. Photo: MTI/Vajda János

Visitors should be aware that certain limitations may be in place during the reopening phase. According to Termál Online, timed-entry tickets and a cap of 500 visitors are under consideration, although official statements from Miskolci Fürdők have not confirmed these measures.

Themed sauna sessions and summer hours

The Kagyló Strand will be open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM. On weekends, guests can also enjoy themed sauna sessions with a separate ticket. Renowned across Europe for its unique natural features, the facility is once again opening its doors to the public, if not yet in full, then at least one major step closer to full restoration.

The partial reopening of the Cave Bath is good news not only for locals but also for tourists visiting the region as the summer season kicks off. Many are hopeful that the indoor sections will soon be accessible again and that the facility will soon return to its former glory.

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Read more about baths in Hungary HERE.

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